We developed and evaluated dental gels and pastilles containing high concentrations of xylitol for dental caries. First, 16 gel formulations (G1–G16) were prepared containing 20%–30% xylitol and gelling agents (4% hydroxy propyl methyl cellulose: HPMC; 4% carboxy methyl cellulose or 1%–2% xanthan gum). The physical appearance, pH, viscosity, and adhesiveness of the gels were evaluated. Gels containing 2% xanthan gum were considered optimized formulations and were yellowish, homogeneous, translucent, and highly adhesive. Second, 12 pastille formulations (P1–P12) were prepared containing 55.6% xylitol and a combination of 6%–14% gelatin and 1.42%–1.50% carrageenan. The pastilles were evaluated for physical appearance, pH, and dissolution. The pastille formulations containing 8.2% gelatin and 1.50% carrageenan had homogeneous, translucent, and chewable attributes. Furthermore, the stability of the optimized formulations was determined. The physicochemical characteristics of the gels remained acceptable after accelerated and long-term storage at 40 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH and 30 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH, respectively, for 3 months. No changes in physicochemical characteristics were evident after storage in 30 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH for 3 months. However, the pastilles became unstable after one month of storage at 40 ± 2°C/75 ± 5% RH.
Key words: xylitol, dental gel, pastille, dental caries, formulation, stability
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